About Thomas: The fourth-year receiver from Georgia Tech led Denver with 107 catches for 1,618 yards and 16 touchdowns (regular season and playoffs). At 6-foot-3 and 229 pounds, he has the power to work over the middle and the speed to work the perimeter.

About Maxwell: Seattle’s third option at right cornerback because of suspensions to Brandon Browner and Walter Thurmond, Maxwell (6-1, 207) made his first NFL start Dec. 2 against New Orleans and hasn’t left the lineup since. He has four interceptions in his last six games.

Key stat: Thomas’ 35 catches of 25 yards or more since the start of 2012 lead the NFL.

Why it’s important: Denver quarterback Peyton Manning isn’t afraid of any cornerback but if he chooses to throw away from Richard Sherman and test Maxwell early, the third-year cornerback must be up to the task.